Welcome to Renfrewshire, a Federation of 13 Institutes; 10 in villages in Renfrewshire, East Renfrewshire and Inverclyde and 3 situated on the Island of Bute.
Institutes meet monthly and offer a wide range of activities. Many members are keen bowlers, curlers or golfers and take part in competitions at Federation and National levels. For those with an interest in drama, public speaking, poetry or script writing the Federation participates in competitions such as Matter of Opinion and Variations on a Theme. In addition, members who like to sing or dance can take part in choir activities and competitions or attend the annual country dance weekend arranged by SWRI.
Rural members are well known for their expertise in crafts and cooking. For those who wish to learn new crafts or develop their skills, the Federation takes advantage of the classes and schools run by SWRI and is happy to arrange additional classes in areas of interest requested by members. These classes are all hands-on and are great fun.
The many impressive skills our members have, from patchwork to paper craft, from felt making to photography, fabric creations to flower arranging and art work, are all on display along with succulent savouries, creative cakes and perfect preserves, at Federation Shows. These are always well worth a visit.
All our Institutes have close links with their communities, many members taking part in Galas and Fetes and many Institutes organising outings, theatre trips and events often involving the wider community. There is a great team spirit and many members enjoy entering local agricultural show and flower show competitions.
Of course Rural is not just about entering competitions. Whatever your age or interests, if you enjoy interesting evenings out with friendly company, come and join us and see what you can do. You will be made most welcome.
| Institute | Day of Month | Location |
|---|---|---|
| BALLIANLAY | 1st Monday | Ballianlay Hall |
| BROOKFIELD | 3rd Monday | Viallage Hall |
| BRIDGE OF WEIR | 1st Thursday | British Legion Halls |
| HOUSTON & CROSSLEE | 2nd Wednesday | Compass Centre |
| HOWWOOD | 3rd Tuesday | Village Hall |
| INCHINNAN | 2nd Tuesday | Community Centre |
| INVERKIP | 3rd Monday | Church Hall |
| KILCHATTAN BAY (Bute) | 1st Monday | St Blane's Hotel |
| LANGBANK | 3rd Thursday | Village Centre |
| LOCHWINNOCH | 3rd Wednesday | McKillop Hall |
| NEILSTON | 3rd Tuesday | Church Hall |
| PORT BANNATYNE (Bute) | 1st Monday | Village Hall |
| UPLAWMOOR | 1st Monday | Mure Hall |